TROPHY CLUB, Texas — Northwest ISD is doubling down on its security measures after several bomb threats were issued. The Medlin Middle School principal tells WFAA it's part of the fallout after a teacher was harassed and even received death threats online.
Although repeated bomb threats against the teacher and the school are deemed a hoax, district leaders continue to pray for safety.
"As we conduct the business of the school board. But we ask you to keep your hedge of protection of our staff over our students, our families, and our community," a district leader prayed at a recent board meeting.
The teacher also received bomb threats at her home in Trophy Club.
WFAA is not naming the teacher due to safety reasons. WFAA contacted the teacher by phone and text but has not heard back from her.
The teacher is known for supporting a student-run group called "Safe Space." The group is open to all students including those part of LGBTQ to wrap sessions.
Investigating the bomb threats against her and the school has cost local and federal law enforcement money and resources. The district has increased patrols, added a Police K-9 officer at the school, and squad cars are parked at both ends of campus.
In a letter to parents, Principal Paige Cantrell wrote, 'We sadly received a hoax bomb threat this week because of an ongoing harassment campaign against one of our teachers."
Although supporters did not use her name, the teacher received support during the public comment portion of the school board meeting.
"As one of our own is being attacked on social media and threats are being made at her home and school, it's easy to be pulled in by her own biases and opinions," a concerned parent said.
The police department says it's getting assistance from federal law enforcement. The FBI called the bomb threats a hoax saying, they put innocent people at risk, cause undue stress and fear to the public, and waste valuable law enforcement resources.
Although charges in this case would be decided by the District Attorney, Northwest ISD officials say it will prosecute if the suspects are identified.